Conceived in Benin, born in Morocco, raised in Spain: Edna Imade could be Nigeria’s next attacking weapon

Nigeria’s Super Falcons are a powerhouse in African women’s football, with a legacy built on generations of gifted strikers.

Players like Mercy Akide, Perpetua Nkwocha, and Asisat Oshoala have carried the team through decades of dominance.

As Oshoala's era begins to wind down, the search for a new goal-scoring queen to lead Nigeria's next generation continues.

Among the top candidates is Edna Imade, a young, powerful forward making waves in Spanish football.

A Journey of Resilience and Hope

Imade’s story begins in Benin City, Nigeria, in 2000, when her parents left in search of a better life.

Pregnant with Edna and her twin brother Paul, her mother embarked on a perilous journey across the Sahara Desert.

Facing unimaginable challenges, the family reached Morocco, where Imade’s mother gave birth to the twins.

After three months in Morocco, they secured a spot on a boat to Spain, seeking safety and stability.

Upon arrival in Spain, Imade's father was detained and deported, leaving her mother to care for the newborn twins on her own.

Alone, with no language skills or family connections, her mother searched desperately for assistance.

Eventually, a Kenyan nun offered shelter, and they settled in Seville.

However, the family continued to struggle financially, relying on welfare and small earnings from selling scarves on the streets.

Despite these hardships, Edna’s mother instilled resilience in her children.

Growing Up in Spain, with Dreams of Football Stardom

Raised in Seville, Edna embraced her Spanish surroundings, speaking with a distinct Andalusian accent.

Despite the challenging circumstances of her upbringing, football provided her an outlet and a pathway to something greater.

Starting at six years old, Edna played on boys’ teams in the small town of Carmona, refining her skills and proving herself against strong competition.

She later transitioned to indoor football and excelled, scoring nearly 100 goals in two seasons for Nervión, a club in the second Andalusian women’s division.

In 2019, Edna took her talents to Málaga CF Femenino in the Reto Iberdrola league, making her first significant step in professional football.

Her impressive performances led to a move to Cacereño Femenino, where she continued to develop her technique and on-field intelligence.

Physically strong, fast, and skilful, Edna quickly caught the attention of scouts and fans alike.

Last year, Edna moved to Granada CF, where she had a strong debut season, scoring five goals in 28 appearances.

This season, she has been in electrifying form, netting five goals in her first eight league games.

Her standout performances included scoring twice against Eibar, a crucial goal in a close loss to Real Betis, and a brace in Granada’s 3-0 win over Sevilla last weekend.

Her combination of strength, speed, and tactical awareness has made her one of the most exciting talents in Spain’s women’s league.

Could Edna Imade be Nigeria’s Next Star?

With the 2025 Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on the horizon, Nigeria's Super Falcons are undergoing a transformation under coach Justin Madugu.

The team will need fresh talents as they seek to reclaim their title from current champions South Africa.

Imade’s potential call-up would not only add a valuable attacking option but also give her a chance to connect with her Nigerian roots, a part of her heritage she has yet to fully explore.

To date, Imade has not visited Nigeria, although she keeps in touch with her family in Benin City.

Her mother dreams of returning to her homeland, but safety concerns have held them back.

Yet, the opportunity to represent Nigeria at a high level could bring Imade closer to her family, heritage, and a new chapter in her footballing journey.

As the Super Falcons aim for glory, Imade’s impressive abilities and her heartfelt story might just be the spark Nigeria need to continue their legacy at the top of African women’s football.

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